Straw bale works extremely well with timber frame construction. It is a great infill for tiny houses and small cottages. Andrew Morrison of Jacksonville, Oregon with his company at StrawBale.com has designed the neatest little cottage using these two elements.

This peaceful little cottage is perfect for the do-it-yourselfer who is interested in learning about building with straw bales, or for anyone who is looking to have a cozy peaceful retreat space added to there homestead.

It has passive solar capabilities built right in, and of course incredibly insulative walls. The stamped concrete floor can collect solar energy during the cool winter days through the large south facing windows and radiate it into the space at night. The design also presents many round elements such as rounded walls and windows and an open beamed arched ceiling that look to capture the organic qualities inherent in straw bales. An electrical plan is included on the floor plan and it features a lighting element along the ridge beam that absolutely drips with warmth.

The Sunset Cottage is a small yet cozy 200 square foot structure elegantly designed. It is very spacious inside with a large window seat and areas that can accommodate built in features such as closets and beds. It has a beautifully curved open beam ceiling that gives the space a “open” feeling. It is relatively easy to build and is a great way for someone interested in building with straw bales to create a nice art studio, meditation space, or guest house.

If timber frame and straw bale is of interest to you do yourself a favor and look this one over. For more information on this cute little cottage go to: StrawBale.com

Interior Sunset Cottage

Interior Coach Bed

Sunset Cottage Ceiling

Timber frame construction was used by early settlers. It is recognized by its large timbers and intricate joints. The strong structural timbers support the roof without the need for support from the walls. To give lateral support and to help resist the wind, diagonal knee braces are used throughout.There are many different ways to complete your timber framestructure. Some infill options include:

1. Straw Bale
2. Cord Wood
3. Log paneling
4. Stone
5. Shingling over walls
6. Slab Siding
7. Board and Batten
8. Tongue and Groove or Bevel

There are many timber frame building companies, but I have found a couple who specialize in small buildings and would recommend you look into them for your needs. One even offers training and workshops. Here they are:

Shelter Institute offers classes at there facility in Woolwich Maine. They also sell ready made timber frames that start at $12,050 for a 20 x 20 precut frame plus shipping. Shelter Home Institute also offers training through workshops if you want to learn more and get some hands on experience before you build. For more information visit there site by clicking the link above.

Timberlast specializes in small spaces and there kits start at 8 x 10 and go to 24 x 24. Timberlast is geared toward the do-it yourselfer. Their goal is to provide beautifully handcrafted timber frame structures at an affordable price. Their frames are easily erected in just a few hours and ready for you to finish.

Click here for a interview and slide show with David Fernandez of Timberlast.com In the next couple of articles I will look at some of the infill options using timber frame, the first being straw bale, followed by cord wood.